Clipless, you can do it.

[lkrider]

Welcome welcome...this is such a cool place. Inspirational and fun!
I think we did a lot of the same ...skimp on gear and ride anyway. I finally realized that everyone new to riding was buying stuff and I was still riding around with gear from the dark ages. After gradually adding shorts and gloves, then jerseys and finally (this year ) a new bike, I realized that the right gear makes a huge difference! A couple years ago another rider told me that I would be able to ride a lot longer with cleats and bike shoes instead of tennis shoes. I had used cages for years. He was so right! It feels like you and the bike are one machine. I will never go back. Be sure to get the stiff bottom shoes. They support and protect your foot ligaments-better in the long run. Like everyone says loosen the tension all the way. Don't make the mistake of starting out slow- that's when more falling happens. Go normal speed, plan your first several stops (unclip early at first) and unclip consistently on the same side to develop a natural habit.